Let there be light (September 21, 2010)

Announcing two seminars at Light Canada, part of IIDEX/NeoCon Canada, held this week at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place.

Rethinking Light as a Material

Thursday, Sept. 23, 10-11 a.m.

This presentation will show how the subtleties of light are a part of our everyday lives, and how light does more than simply allow us to see. Light communicates a myriad of information about our built and natural environment. Light is used as a medium for art, and it is used as a fixture in architecture. The purpose of this seminar is to awaken our understanding of light and how it can be used as a “material” rather than just a tool to deliver recommended foot-candles. The session will begin with what light is, illustrate how it is used well in art and architecture, and end with how we can use it better in our built world.

Lighting for Designers & Architects

Thursday, Sept. 23, 1-3 p.m.

Brad Hindson, IESNA – joined by Paul Boken, LC, IESNA, and Darrin Hoyle, LC, IESNA – will address common lighting issues that affect architects and interior designers. Discussion topics will range from lamp types, lighting effects and light cove design to more advanced points like reading a cut sheet, the importance of maintenance and how to avoid scalloping, socket shadows and hot spots. The intent is not to turn everyone into a lighting designer, but rather to leave participants with a better understanding of lighting and its vocabulary so they can improve their dialogue with lighting professionals. Other topics include common lighting details and applications, basic lighting terminology, and lighting dos and don’ts, with examples.
Brad Hindson, IESNA, is an intern architect with Diamond + Schmitt Architects and is a lighting designer and artist with Studio F Minus, in Toronto. He has worked for Diamond + Schmitt Architects and KPMB, contributing to projects such as a large-scale public installation for Toronto’s Luminato Festival, and Nota Bene restaurant in the city’s downtown and various Canadian Universities. Brad’s work in collaboration with artist Mitchell F. Chan has earned plaudits from media outlets as varied as the National Post, the Washington Post and TV’s Bravo.